How to Make Classic Campfire Stew: Easy, Hearty, and Full of Flavour

Warm up your evenings with this one-pot comfort food that's perfect for campsites or cosy nights at home.

INGREDIENTS

• 500 g diced pork shoulder (or sausages, if preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red capsicum, diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried rhyme
• 400 g tinned chopped tomatoes
• 400 g tinned mixed beans (or cannellini/kidney beans), drained and rinsed
• 150 ml chicken or vegetable stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: a dash of barbecue sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavour

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the Base: Heat the olive oil in a large camp oven or heavy-based pot over medium heat. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, cook the onion until soft, then stir in garlic, capsicum, paprika, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine & Simmer: Return the pork to the pot. Add chopped tomatoes, beans, stock, and barbecue sauce (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Let It Stew: Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1-1 1/2 hours until the meat is tender and the stew is thick. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or campfire potatoes.

CAMPFIRE COOKING TIPS

• If using a campfire, ensure you're cooking over a steady bed of coals rather than open flames.
• Use a cast iron camp oven or Dutch oven for even heat distribution.
• A folding trivet stand or grill grate helps maintain stable cooking over uneven coals.

GREAT TOOLS TO HAVE ON HAND

While not required, these items make prep and cooking easier whether you're at the campsite or at home:

• Cast Iron Camp Oven: Durable and ideal for slow-cooking stews
• Heat-Resistant Silicone Tongs: Useful for turning meat safely over hot surfaces.
• Compact Cutting Board Set:  Especially handy when chopping ingredients outdoors.
• Stackable Food Storage Containers: Perfect for prepping veggies ahead of time.
• Multi-Purpose Cooking Spoon or Spatula: One tool to stir, scoop, and serve.